Therapies which may benefit Toothache

Toothache is an aching pain localised in or around the tooth. It is
commonly caused by cavities, decay, gum disease or the emergence of
wisdom teeth.

Causes of toothache

Inside a tooth is a space filled with dental pulp that contains nerves
and blood vessels. When this pulp becomes inflamed (a condition known
as pulpitis) it causes pain. Inflammation of the dental pulp occurs
through problems such as:

Tooth decay – dental decay causes small holes (known as cavities) in the hard enamel surface of the tooth

Tooth fracture – a crack in tooth

Fillings – loose or broken fillings can cause pulpitis

Receding gums – gums that pull back from the tooth can leave softer, sensitive parts of the tooth exposed

Babies who are teething and children with new teeth can also experience toothache.

Symptoms of toothache

The main symptom of
toothache is mild or severe pain in and around the affected tooth. Pain
can also radiate out into the jaw, head and ear. The surrounding gums
may feel sore and tender if an infection or abscess is present and pain
is often worse when eating or drinking.

The
affected tooth may become sensitive to hot and cold food and bleeding
may occur around the tooth and gums. In severe toothache, or when an
abscess is present, there may be swelling of the jaw.

Diagnosis of toothache

If you are suffering with toothache then you
should visit a dentist. The dentist will examine the teeth and gums for
inflammation, swelling and decay. If necessary, the dentist will use an
X-ray to look for any decay, fractures or problems with the jaw bone.